Pakistan and Uzbekistan have taken a major step toward strengthening bilateral relations by signing a wide range of agreements and memorandums of understanding across key sectors, reflecting a shared commitment to long-term strategic partnership. The accords were finalized during a formal ceremony at the Prime Minister’s House, where Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev also signed a joint declaration outlining a comprehensive framework for future cooperation.
The signing ceremony marked one of the most significant diplomatic engagements between the two countries in recent years. A total of 28 agreements and MoUs were exchanged, covering areas such as trade, defense, climate change, agriculture, information technology, education, culture, and security. Senior officials from both sides attended the event, underscoring the importance Islamabad and Tashkent place on expanding ties.
Expanding Diplomatic and Trade Cooperation
Among the key documents exchanged was a memorandum of understanding between the foreign ministries of Pakistan and Uzbekistan aimed at enhancing diplomatic coordination and political dialogue. The two sides also agreed on a protocol to expand the list of goods under the Preferential Trade Agreement, a move expected to boost bilateral trade volumes and improve market access for exporters from both countries.
Another notable development was the agreement to establish an inter-regional forum, designed to promote connectivity and cooperation between South Asia and Central Asia. Analysts believe this forum could play a crucial role in enhancing regional integration, trade routes, and people-to-people contacts.
Defense, Climate, and Security Agreements
Defense cooperation featured prominently in the agreements signed, with both countries finalizing an action plan to strengthen collaboration in the defense sector. The plan is expected to pave the way for joint initiatives, training, and knowledge-sharing in areas of mutual interest.
In response to growing global environmental challenges, Pakistan and Uzbekistan also signed memorandums of understanding on climate change and disaster risk management. These agreements aim to improve coordination in tackling climate-related threats, sharing expertise, and developing joint response mechanisms to natural disasters.
Food security and agricultural development were also addressed, with both sides signing agreements on agricultural research cooperation and food security initiatives. A protocol on plant protection was agreed upon to enhance collaboration in safeguarding crops and improving agricultural productivity.
Broad-Based Cooperation Across Key Sectors
The scope of the agreements extended into social, economic, and technological fields. Pakistan and Uzbekistan agreed to enhance cooperation in sports, promote collaboration in mining and geosciences, and work jointly to curb drug trafficking through a dedicated agreement.
Further documents were exchanged on the transfer of sentenced persons, cooperation in information technology, and partnerships in science, education, and the preservation and research of cultural heritage. These agreements are aimed at fostering institutional linkages and long-term collaboration between universities, research centers, and cultural institutions.
Maritime cooperation and trade facilitation were also included, alongside agreements to promote collaboration in the pharmaceutical industry and the textile sector. In addition, both countries signed an MoU focused on supporting the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises, recognizing their role in economic development and job creation.
Cultural cooperation featured as another important pillar, with an agreement signed to expand exchanges and strengthen mutual understanding between the peoples of Pakistan and Uzbekistan.
Honorary Degree for Uzbek President
In recognition of the close and friendly bilateral relationship, the Government of Pakistan announced the decision to award Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev an honorary doctorate degree. The gesture was described as a symbol of appreciation for his role in strengthening ties between the two countries and promoting regional cooperation.
Uzbek President Visits Defense and Industrial Facilities
Earlier in the day, President Mirziyoyev, accompanied by a high-level ministerial delegation, visited Global Industrial and Defense Solutions (GIDS). He was received by Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
During the visit, the Uzbek president and his delegation were briefed on Pakistan’s advanced defense systems, industrial capabilities, and technological expertise. The delegation toured key facilities and observed modern defense equipment manufactured in Pakistan.
ISPR said the Uzbek delegation expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s progress in defense production and industrial development, acknowledging the country’s growing expertise in these fields.
Strengthening Defense and Industrial Ties
The visit to GIDS was seen as an important step toward enhancing cooperation in defense, technology, and industrial sectors. Both sides emphasized the importance of partnerships, knowledge exchange, and joint projects to maximize mutual benefits.
Officials noted that such engagements not only strengthen institutional links but also contribute to greater trust and understanding between the two countries. The visit was described as a positive signal for future collaboration in high-tech and defense-related industries.
A New Chapter in Bilateral Relations
The signing of multiple agreements and the high-level engagements during President Mirziyoyev’s visit reflect a growing convergence of interests between Pakistan and Uzbekistan. Observers say the breadth of cooperation demonstrates both countries’ desire to move beyond traditional diplomacy toward a more comprehensive and results-oriented partnership.
As regional connectivity, economic diversification, and security challenges continue to shape global politics, Pakistan and Uzbekistan appear keen to position their relationship as a model of constructive engagement. The latest agreements are expected to translate into concrete projects and initiatives in the coming months, opening a new chapter in bilateral relations marked by deeper cooperation and shared strategic goals.
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